Temporal Arteritis (Inflamed Scalp Artery)
Description
Inflammation of the arteries in the head most commonly affecting the temporal artery. The temporal artery is located in the temple area of the scalp. This disorder causes jaw pain, headaches, and blurry vision and if left untreated can result in blindness. Prompt treatment is essential to save eyesight. Temporal arteritis is more common in women and is seen in patients greater than 50. This disease is also called giant cell arteritis and is related to polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).
Symptoms
Pain in one or both temple areas of the scalp, headache, jaw pain, blurry vision, double vision.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The following tests may be done to identify the disease although only a biopsy absolutely can confirm the diagnosis: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C reactive protein), biopsy of temporal artery
- MRI
Treatment
High dose oral steroids such as prednisone are the treatment, and should be started as soon as possible to prevent long-term complications such as loss of sight.
Related Videos
Research
News
Q: My doctor diagnosed me with polymyalgia. I have ...
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Temporal arteritis (Inflamed scalp artery)?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.